The first step to treating alcohol abuse and/ or addiction is to successfully complete detox.
Detox is the process that cleanses one’s body of all foreign substances. When an individual has habitually abused alcohol, his or her system will become accustomed to functioning with it presently. When alcohol is removed from one’s system it will react accordingly, and withdrawal symptoms will ensue. There are several ways a person can go through the detox experience, but depending on the substance abuse, some options are better than others. It is not recommended for an individual to undergo alcohol detox at home, rather undergoing a medically supervised detox is essential for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. The reason being the withdrawal symptoms that can occur from removing alcohol from one’s system can be excruciating and even dangerous. In a medically supervised detox setting, an individual will go through his or her detox experience being closely monitored by a professional.
At Home Detox Risks
The at-home detox method is when an individual attempts to undergo detox at home without any medical supervision. Depending on the situation an at-home detox can be a viable option for some individuals and dangerous for others. There is a myriad of risks associated with detoxing from alcohol at home. Some examples of risks as well as withdrawal symptoms that may occur during an at-home detox from alcohol could include but are not limited to the following, provided by Verywell Mind:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Headaches
- Increased heart rate
- Seizures
- High blood pressure
- Panic attacks
- Muscle pain
Attempting to detox from alcohol alone can be unsafe as it is impossible to determine how severe one’s withdrawal symptoms will be until he or she is in the process of detoxing. The most dangerous withdrawal symptom associated with detoxing from alcohol is called delirium tremens. Delirium tremens is scientifically defined as “the most severe form of ethanol withdrawal, manifested by altered mental status (global confusion) and sympathetic overdrive (autonomic hyperactivity), which can progress to cardiovascular collapse.” Delirium tremens are a medical emergency, and when not medically attended to can become fatal.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At {Upwell Advisors}, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
